For years I have driven by the Long Beach Lawn Bowling Center. I tought i knew what Lawn Bowling was. So I finally decided to stop in and ask. so enjoy th video, and stop by for some fun.
Category: News
Cost of Land in Alamitos Heights?
I often get asked what the Land Value or Lot Value is in Alamitos Heights. Well now we have two good comps for that. Both have recently had the structures demolished
The most recent is 5473 E. 4th Street. This property recently sold for $703,000. The lost Size was 6,483 SF. The original List price was $850,000, then dropped to $749,900. The Cost per SF of land is $108/sf.
Before
Current
The second property was 5525 e. 4th Street, this sold back in June of 201 for $711,000. It was originally listed for $725,000. The lot size is 6,483 Sf. This works out to $110 SF (rounded)
Before
Current
![20150528_112425[1]](http://alamitosheightsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/20150528_1124251.jpg)
![20150528_084606[1]](http://alamitosheightsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/20150528_0846061.jpg)
It will interesting to see what is built on these two lots, Stay tuned.
Remember, if you are thinking about selling or buying in Alamitos Heights, contact me, I am the Local Expert, a Resident and a Certified Appraiser.
Simms Pond
If you are like me, you have driven by Simms Pond on the corner of Loynes and PCH for years, and have only seen it through the fence.
Well, thanks to readers of this blog that asked if I knew anything about it, I called the man who does, Lenny Arkinstall of the Los Cerritos Wetlands Stewards to arrange a visit.
A very brief History:
Back in the 1950’s and 1960’s there was a Bait Shop at the corner of Loynes and PCH called Simms Bait and Tackle. hence the name Simms Pond. Then in 1977/78, developers wanted to build homes in what is now Del Lago and BayHarbour. As a condition for these developments, the California Coastal Commission required that Simms Pond be set aside for a Biological Reserve. In 2003 the Del Lago Community Association and the Bay Harbour HOA deeded the land to the city.
The pond is what they call a seasonal “vernal pool”, meaning it will be dry at sometime during the year. Lenny informed me that the pond is the healthiest it has ever been and that the drying of the pond by the drought this year has actually helped to air out and repair the soil.
The pond is home to many species of birds and wildlife. (Click here simsbirds 2013 – Final v 1 1 (2) )
After 25 years of driving past the pond, it was a treat to be able to see it up close. This really is a hidden gem in the city of Long Beach.
If there is enough interest, we can arrange a group tour. But for now, enjoy the pictures
RALPHS Grocery Store near Alamitos Heights Closing!!!
Yes, the Ralphs located at the intersection of PCH, Bellflower Blvd and 7th Street at the Bixby Village Center will be closing.
I spoke with people at the store, and was informed they will be closing in 3-4 weeks. Supposedly, the owner of the center, Westar Associates raised the rent, Ralphs said no, and Westar gave them a 30 day notice.
What could replace Ralphs as an anchor in the center and occupy 33,382 SF? I would like to think another Grocery store, but with a new Gelsons, Whole Food’s, Trader Joes and a larger Ralphs down the road. Anyone’s guess could be good. However, on Westars Associates website, there are links to stories about Smart & Final Extra?
I think losing this Ralphs is a blow to the surrounding neighborhoods. It was much easier to go to this location then the one down PCH.
What do you think? Send me an email.
Alamitos Heights Long Beach
Picnic, Yard Sales, Community Service and Contest Winner
We have had a good Kick off to summer here in Alamitos Heights. The AHIA ( Alamitos Heights Improvement Association, say that three times fast) hosted the Annual Picnic/BBQ. This was a good time to meet neighbors from other streets, play games with the kids and volunteer for a committee on the AHIA board.
This is also when the AHIA recognizes a resident for outstanding work in the community. This year we had two, Karen Taylor and Holland Brown. These two ladies created the Award winning “Learning Garden” at Lowell Elementary School. Karen and Holland Volunteer countless hours to help teach the kids at Lowell. Many lessons coincide with what the kids are leaning in class; History, Science, Etc. Having helped in the Learning Garden, I can say personally, that the enthusiasm and dedication these ladies bring is amazing. They have won many awards for Lowell. People like these are what make Alamitos Heights a great community, and what make our local schools the Best.
Last, we just had our first Community Yard Sale. Over 15 homes participated. I can say, that on our block, it was more of a party and social event, then a sale.
The winner to last months sweepstakes ( 2 Free Dinners to Ma n’ Pa Grocery)
Was, Angie Canchola of Ultimo Ave.
Our new sweepstakes will Start Soon, Look for the Flyer on your door!
If you have any old photos, or if you know some neighbors that have some, please have them contact me.
If you are thinking about selling your house, and would like to know the current market value or discuss a sales plan, call or email me. If you know someone who wants to move to our wonderful neighborhood, call me, I would be happy to help find them a home. Remember, I am a Long Beach Real Estate Agent, Certified Appraiser, and a resident of Alamitos Heights, Long Beach. I know values. Call me for all your Real Estate needs 562-673-1138
Unofficial Start to Summer, Neighborhood Yard Sale and Local Wildlife
The unofficial start of summer happened this past Friday in Alamitos Heights. The 80’s and 90’s cover band KNYGHT RYDER played at Marina Vista Park for the kickoff to the City of Long Beaches 100 Days of Summer ( www.100daysofsummer.org ) A good time was had by all.
Some upcoming events worth seeing are:
- Free Movie Screening of “42” the Jackie Robinson Story at Blair Field on July 19.
- Dragon Boat Festival at Marine Stadium, July 26-27 (www.lbdragonboat.com )
- Sprint Nationals speed Boat Races in Marine Stadium August 2-3 (www.scscracing.com )
Time to clean out the Garage and closets and make some money!
The Alamitos Heights Improvement Association is hosting a Community Yard Sale on Saturday June 19 from 7am to 12 noon. For more information contact president@ahia.info
Last is Wildlife. We live in an urban setting, we have our share of opossums, Raccoons and Coyotes that visit our neighborhood. The other morning I was driving north on Santiago and noticed this Coopers Hawk taking a morning bath in the street. Here are some facts about Coopers Hawks. ( All about Birds )
If you are thinking about sellingwant to know the current value of your home please send me an email or call. If you know of someone looking for a 5 Bedroom Home, let me know.
Remember, I am a Realtor and Certified Appraiser, and have been a resident of Alamitos Heights for 18 Years.
New Trees, New Sidewalks and a New Council Member!
There is a lot that has happened in Alamitos Heights in the past few weeks.
First of all, Alamitos Heights Resident, Suzie Price was elected as our new 3rd District Council Member. Congratulations, and may the repaving of our streets continue!
Next, you may notice a few new Magnolia Trees were planted this past Sunday. We have recently had numerous old and dying Trees removed by the city, so I it is great that some new ones have been planted. I think the Magnolia trees add a distinct look to our neighborhood.
Also, there was an AHIA neighborhood meeting with Council Member Gary DeLong. There were some “spirited” conversations about Dunkin Donuts and what impact it could have on our neighborhood.
Last, Ultimo Avenue is in the process of getting new sidewalks installed. This is part of the Annual sidewalk repair budget. Future improvements will be to Repave 6th Street and add Roundabouts. Stay tuned.
If you are thinking about selling your house, and would like to know the current market value or discuss a sales plan, call or email me. If you know someone who wants to move to our wonderful neighborhood, call me, I would be happy to help find them a home. Remember, I am a Long Beach Real Estate Agent, Certified Appraiser, and a resident of Alamitos Heights, Long Beach. I know the area. Call me for all your Real Estate needs 562-673-1138
What is up with the New Coffee House on Nieto?
Driving from Alamitos Heights towards Lowell Elementary and Rogers Middle School on a daily basis, I have noticed the project on Nieto has been stalled for some time. So I stopped by to take a look. See the concept here, click on this link http://www.ultra-unit.com/Greenbelt_Coffee.html
I called the Architect ( Ultra-Unit) that is listed on the project sign to ask him a few questions. Cameron said that work will resume in the next few weeks. I asked him about the concept. From what he knows about the project, the owners plan to focus on breakfast and lunch, as far what the menu might look like, he does not know. As soon as I find out more information, I will post it here.
Projects like this are what make living in Alamitos Heights so great, an new local spot for neighbors to meet.
If you are thinking about selling your house, and would like to know the current market value or discuss a sales plan, call or email me. If you know someone who wants to move to our wonderful neighborhood, call me, I would be happy to help find them a home. Remember, I am a Long Beach Real Estate Agent, Certified Appraiser, and a resident of Alamitos Heights, Long Beach. I know values. Call me for all your Real Estate needs 562-673-1138
What change is coming to 7th street?
The Alamitos Heights Improvement Association sent out a notice yesterday regarding the property on 7th Street. The property is home to the Original Grind and, the old Liquor store.
Supposedly, Newport Beach Developer, Frontier Real Estate Investments out of Newport Beach is planning to develop the property. Per the Public Hearing notice (2014 Jan city notice of 7th Flint renovate permit process-3 (3)), they plan to construct a single story, 1,889 sf fast food restaurant.
Rumor has it, that it could be a Dunkin Donuts (NASDAQ: DNKN). Dunkin is planning a major push into the California Market. See the Press release from Dunkin Donuts (click on the picture for the link.) 
While I was taking the picture above, I ran into Jeff Gritchen, Chief Photographer for The Long Beach Register . They will be running a full story on Dunkin Donuts tomorrow, be sure to check it out.
Jeff also has a great blog called Long Beach Seen with almost daily photos from around Long Beach.
If you are thinking about selling your house, and would like to know the current market value, call or email me. If you know someone who wants to move to our wonderful neighborhood, call me, I would be happy to help find them a home. Remember, I am a Long Beach Real Estate Agent, Certified Appraiser, and a resident of Alamitos Heights, Long Beach. I know values. Call me for all your Real Estate needs 562-673-1138
Water Line Break in Alamitos Heights
We had a gate valve break on a water line on 4th Street and Santiago Avenue in Alamitos Heights today. I drove by around 2 in the afternoon, and to see water coming up through the pavement.
I came back around 5 pm, and the Long Beach Water Department was hard at work trying to repair the damage. I talked to the supervisor on scene, he said an old Gate Valve (from around 1952) broke. They tried to shut it off,and discovered another was too old and ready to break. LBWD is now going to replace both valves. The water is shut off on 4th Street from Terraine Avenue on the East, to Panama Avenue on the west. They hope to have it repaired by midnight. They said they understand that people have to work, and it is an inconvenience, but to please be patient.
I did some reading on the LBWD webpage about water main breaks. It seems the city has invested over $100 -million to replace the old pipe. in 2012 there were only 22 main breaks in the entire city. This was an all time record low!
This is also a good time to remember that we are still in a draught, and the prediction for rain fall this year does not look good. Please, do your best to conserve.
If you are thinking about selling your house, and would like to know the current market value or discuss a sales plan, call or email me. If you know someone who wants to move to our wonderful neighborhood, call me, I would be happy to help find them a home. Remember, I am a Long Beach Real Estate Agent, Certified Appraiser, and a resident of Alamitos Heights, Long Beach. I know values. Call me for all your Real Estate needs 562-673-1138